Artificial Colors

Anyone who’s trying to live a more natural life, which includes avoiding artificial ingredients, is no stranger to the notion that artificial colors are not as benign as we’ve been led to believe. In the 1970s, pediatrician Benjamin Feingold first proposed the idea that synthetic dyes may cause health problems. He created a diet free of artificial food coloring and preservatives to treat hyperactivity and claimed to have had great success — but mainstream medicine and health professionals largely dismissed this hypothesis.

Not surprisingly, natural food advocates clash with food manufacturers on this issue with both sides citing support for their respective positions. Food manufacturers point to studies and reviews that support their beliefs that artificial dyes are safe; however, emerging evidence suggests that concerns over artificial colors are valid.

What does the research show?

A meta-analysis published in the Journal of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics casts doubts on the idea that food dyes are safe. Using standardized behavioral testing, artificial colors were found to be associated with increased hyperactivity in children with existing hyperactivity disorders, raising the question that these dyes may be a problem for certain groups who are more susceptible to their effects.

The Lancet published a study comparing the effects of a placebo beverage free of artificial colors with one that contained artificial colors with a common preservative used in beverages, sodium benzoate. In both age groups tested, one group aged three and the second group eight to nine, a significant increase in hyperactivity was observed.

Where are artificial colors found?

The use of artificial colors has been steadily increasing over the past 60 years. It’s estimated that we ingest about five times more food coloring that our grandparents did; a daily average of about 60mg per person versus just 12mg in the mid 1950s! Artificial colors can be found pretty much anywhere there’s color. Often you’ll just see the word ‘color’ in the ingredient list without reference to the specific type of dye. The foods where they’re lurking aren’t just for kids either; adults are exposed to them everyday even if they feel they don’t pose a health concern.

What can you do?

A healthy diet that is based on minimally processed, nutrient-dense whole foods is one of the best ways to avoid exposure to artificial colors. When choosing prepared foods, go for organic as much as possible, and make reading labels and ingredients lists a part of your food shopping experience. Many food companies have already switched to natural colors, most of which are safe (except for annatto, some forms of caramel, and carmine).

We want to see a warning on the label of foods containing artificial colors. Tell us what you think.

With so much confusion on the internet it is hard to know who to trust for honest information. That is why we created NaturallySavvy.com – to provide you with a safe and reliable environment where you can check out the latest news on healthy living—always without judgement. Subscribe Here